January 23
Mary McLeod Bethune Founds School
On January 23, 1904, educator Mary McLeod Bethune opened the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls in Daytona Beach, Florida, with just $1.50 and five students. The school later merged to become Bethune-Cookman University.
Alex Haley's Roots Premieres
On January 23, 1977, "Roots" premiered on ABC. The eight-episode miniseries traced Alex Haley's family history from Africa through slavery to emancipation. The finale was watched by an estimated 100 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched broadcasts in U.S. history.
24th Amendment Ratified
On January 23, 1964, the 24th Amendment was ratified, abolishing the poll tax in federal elections. Poll taxes had been used primarily in Southern states to prevent African Americans and poor whites from voting. The amendment was a step toward the full voting rights later secured by the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Patricia Roberts Harris Becomes First Black Female Cabinet Member
On January 23, 1977, Patricia Roberts Harris was sworn in as Secretary of HUD under President Jimmy Carter. She later served as Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare. She had previously served as U.S. Ambassador to Luxembourg.